U.S. patent number 5,028,263 [Application Number 07/396,265] was granted by the patent office on 1991-07-02 for suspension of water-soluble polymers in aqueous media containing dissolved salts.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Aqualon Company. Invention is credited to Charles L. Burdick.
United States Patent |
5,028,263 |
Burdick |
* July 2, 1991 |
Suspension of water-soluble polymers in aqueous media containing
dissolved salts
Abstract
An aqueous suspension comprising 15% or more, by total weight of
the suspension, of at least one anionic or nonionic water-soluble
polymer dispersed in an aqueous solution of an ammonium salt having
a multivalent anion, wherein the weight ratio of the ammonium salt
to the water is at least 0.15, a process for preparing the same,
and use of the same in a variety of applications, are
disclosed.
Inventors: |
Burdick; Charles L.
(Landenberg, PA) |
Assignee: |
Aqualon Company (Wilmington,
DE)
|
[*] Notice: |
The portion of the term of this patent
subsequent to November 28, 2006 has been disclaimed. |
Family
ID: |
26923246 |
Appl.
No.: |
07/396,265 |
Filed: |
August 21, 1989 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
|
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229379 |
Aug 5, 1988 |
4883536 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
106/162.8;
524/416; 106/175.1; 524/401; 524/423 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C08J
3/03 (20130101); C08J 2300/10 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
C08J
3/03 (20060101); C08J 3/02 (20060101); C08L
001/08 (); C08K 003/00 () |
Field of
Search: |
;106/194,169,171
;524/416,423,401 ;536/85 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Other References
Park, Chem. Ab. 63: 10170h, 1965. .
Hawley, Condensed Chemical Dictionary, pp. 171-172, Van Nostrand
Reinhold, N.Y., 1974. .
Hercules, Klucel.RTM. Hydroxypropylcellulose, Chemical and Physical
Properties (1986). .
Aqualon, Natrosol.RTM. Hydroxyethylcellulose, A Nonionic
Water-Soluble Polymer (1987). .
Hercules.RTM. Cellulose Gum, Chemical and Physical Properties
(1984)..
|
Primary Examiner: Morris; Theodore
Assistant Examiner: Brusman; David M.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Kuller; Mark D.
Parent Case Text
This is a continuation of application Ser. No. 07/229,379, filed
Aug. 5, 1988 now U.S. Pat. No. 4,883,536.
Claims
I claim:
1. An aqueous suspension consisting essentially of 15% or more, by
total weight of the suspension, of at least one anionic or nonionic
water-soluble polymer dispersed in an aqueous solution of an
ammonium salt having a multivalent anion, wherein the weight ratio
of the ammonium salt to the water in the suspension is greater than
0.18.
2. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, wherein the water-soluble
polymer is an anionic water-soluble polymer.
3. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, wherein the water-soluble
polymer is a nonionic water-soluble polymer.
4. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, wherein the nonionic or
anionic water-soluble polymer is selected from the group consisting
of natural gums and their derivatives, starch and its derivatives,
partially and fully hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohols, polyacrylamide
polymers and copolymers, polyvinylpyrrolidone and derivatives
thereof, and polyamides.
5. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, wherein the water-soluble
polymer is selected from the group consisting of sodium
carboxymethylcellulose, anionic polyacrylamide,
hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose,
carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose,
3-butoxy-2-hydroxypropylhydroxyethylcellulose and hydrophobically
modified hydroxyethylcellulose.
6. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, wherein the aqueous
suspension contains 22% to 35%, based upon the total weight of the
aqueous suspension, of the at least one anionic or nonionic
water-soluble polymer.
7. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, wherein the ammonium salt
having a multivalent anion is selected from the group consisting of
diammonium phosphate, diammonium sulfate and ammonium
polyphosphate.
8. The aqueous suspension of claim 7, wherein the weight ratio of
the ammonium salt having a multivalent anion to the water in the
suspension is greater than 0.18 to 0.6.
9. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, further containing up to 2%,
by weight of the total suspension, of a stabilizer.
10. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, further containing up to 2%,
by weight of the total suspension, of a stabilizer selected from
the group consisting of fumed silica, clay, carboxymethylcellulose
and xanthan gum.
11. The aqueous suspension of claim 10, wherein the polymer is
hydroxyethylcellulose and the stabilizer is sodium
carboxymethylcellulose.
12. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, having had entrained air
removed by vacuum.
13. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, which is stable for at least
three hours after preparation.
14. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, which is stable for at least
one day after preparation.
15. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, which is stable for at least
one month after preparation.
16. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, wherein the aqueous
viscosity of the water-soluble polymer is on the order of 5,000 or
more centipoise in a 5 weight % aqueous polymer solution.
17. The aqueous suspension of claim 1, wherein the water-soluble
polymer is hydroxyethylcellulose and the weight ratio of the
ammonium salt to the water in the suspension is greater than 0.18
to 0.6.
18. The aqueous suspension of claim 17, further containing up to
2%, by weight of the total suspension, of carboxymethylcellulose as
a stabilizer.
19. The aqueous suspension of claim 1 wherein the water-soluble
polymer is carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose and the weight ratio
of the ammonium salt to the water in the suspension is 0.3 to
0.4.
20. The aqueous suspension of claim 1 wherein the water-soluble
polymer is carboxymethylcellulose and the weight ratio of the
ammonium salt to the water in the suspension is 0.4 to 0.6.
21. A process of preparing an aqueous suspension, consisting
essentially of dissolving an ammonium salt having a multivalent
anion in water and, then, dispersing therein 15% or more, by total
weight of the resultant suspension, of at least one anionic or
nonionic water-soluble polymer, wherein in the resultant suspension
the weight ratio of the ammonium salt to the water in the
suspension is at least 0.18.
22. A process of preparing an aqueous solution of dissolved
water-soluble polymer, comprising adding the aqueous suspension of
claim 1 into an aqueous system in a manner such that the
water-soluble polymer dissolves.
23. An aqueous suspension consisting essentially of 15% or more, by
total weight of the suspension, of at least one anionic or nonionic
water-soluble polymer dispersed in an aqueous solution of an
ammonium salt having an anion and up to 2%, by weight of the total
suspension, of a stabilizer, wherein the weight ratio of the
multivalent ammonium salt to the water in the suspension is at
least 0.15.
24. The aqueous suspension of claim 23, wherein the water-soluble
polymer is an anionic water-soluble polymer.
25. The aqueous suspension of claim 23, wherein the water-soluble
polymer is a nonionic water-soluble polymer.
26. The aqueous suspension of claim 23, wherein the nonionic or
anionic water-soluble polymer is selected from the group consisting
of natural gums and their derivatives, starch and its derivatives,
partially and fully hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohols, polyacrylamide
polymers and copolymers, polyvinylpyrrolidone and derivatives
thereof, and polyamides.
27. The aqueous suspension of claim 23, wherein the water-soluble
polymer is selected from the group consisting of sodium
carboxymethylcellulose, anionic polyacrylamide,
hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose,
carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose,
3-butoxy-2-hydroxypropylhydroxyethylcellulose and hydrophobically
modified hydroxyethylcellulose.
28. The aqueous suspension of claim 23, wherein the aqueous
suspension contains 22% to 35%, based upon the total weight of the
aqueous suspension, of the at least one anionic or nonionic
water-soluble polymer.
29. The aqueous suspension of claim 23, wherein the ammonium salt
having a multivalent anion is selected from the group consisting of
diammonium phosphate, diammonium sulfate and ammonium
polyphosphate.
30. The aqueous suspension of claim 23, wherein the stabilizer is
selected from the group consisting of fumed silica, clay,
carboxymethylcellulose and xanthan gum.
31. The aqueous suspension of claim 23, having had entrained air
removed by vacuum.
32. The aqueous suspension of claim 23, which is stable for at
least three hours after preparation.
33. The aqueous suspension of claim 23, which is stable for at
least one day after preparation.
34. The aqueous suspension of claim 23, which is stable for at
least one month after preparation.
35. The aqueous suspension of claim 23, wherein the aqueous
viscosity of the water-soluble polymer is on the order of 5,000 or
more centipoise in a 5 weight % aqueous polymer solution.
36. A process of preparing an aqueous suspension, consisting
essentially of dissolving an ammonium salt having a multivalent
anion in water and, then, dispersing therein 15% or more, by total
weight of the resultant suspension, of at least one anionic or
nonionic water-soluble polymer, wherein the resultant suspension
contains up to 2%, by weight of the total suspension, of a
stabilizer and has a weight ratio of the ammonium salt to the water
in the suspension is at least 0.15.
37. A process of preparing an aqueous solution of dissolved
water-soluble polymer, comprising adding the aqueous suspension of
claim 24 into an aqueous system in a manner such that the
water-soluble polymer dissolves.
Description
This invention is directed to stable aqueous suspensions of
water-soluble polymers. The suspensions comprise 15% or more, by
total weight, of at least one anionic or nonionic water-soluble
polymer dispersed in an aqueous solution of an ammonium salt having
a multivalent anion.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Water-soluble polymers have traditionally been handled in their
dry, particulate form. Problems associated with dry polymers
include undesirable dust generation, poor dispersibility when added
to aqueous systems, and undesirably long dissolution times.
The dust associated with dry, particulate water-soluble polymers
presents the same conventional handling problems as are encountered
with similar particulate materials. One major concern is the
possibility of dust explosions.
Water-soluble polymers are hygroscopic and absorb water from the
air, which can cause agglomeration of the particles. Such
agglomerated particles are very difficult, if not impossible, to
disperse in an aqueous system.
When added to aqueous systems, water-soluble polymers tend to
agglomerate or form clumps. Agglomeration can be reduced in many
cases by adding the polymer to the aqueous system slowly with
agitation. Slow dissolution substantially reduces the speed of
manufacturing operations.
For the above reasons, plant operators desire a fast, effective and
simple way of incorporating water-soluble polymers into an aqueous
system.
Bishop et al, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,726,912, describe a hydrocarbon
oil based suspension of carboxymethylcellulose which upon contact
with aqueous fluids facilitates dispersion of the
carboxymethylcellulose in the water phase. They state that use of
carboxymethylcellulose having a moisture content of 12 to 25 weight
percent permits the formation of stable suspensions of
carboxymethylcellulose in a hydrocarbon oil which additionally
contains anionic surfactants and suspending agents. This suspension
can be transported to plants where the carboxymethylcellulose is to
be used.
Pickens et al, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,312,675, describe high
concentration polymer slurries containing up to 65 weight % of a
hydrophilic colloid in a hydrophobic solvent.
Colegrove, in U.S. Pat. No. 3,894,879, states that water-soluble
xanthan gum can be prepared as a highly concentrated suspension in
alcohol-water carriers using hydroxyalkyl cellulose derivatives as
the suspending agents, and, in U.S. Pat. No. 3,894,880, states that
water-soluble alginates can be prepared as highly concentrated
pumpable suspension in alcohol-water carriers using xanthan gum as
a suspending agent.
Braun et al, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,325,861, describe a nonaqueous
composition adapted to provide, upon dilution with water, a
solution containing a high molecular weight water-soluble polymer.
The nonaqueous composition comprises (a) a particulate
water-soluble polymer, (b) a water-insoluble, organic liquid
vehicle, (c) an inert, nonionic surfactant, and (d) an inert
thickening agent.
Organic based systems, such as those described above, are not
suitable for many applications. The organic materials present in
such systems are undesirable in many end use applications. Further,
the organic media are flammable and expensive. Accordingly, a
water-based system has been desired.
Burge, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,069,062, describes a method of
incorporating water-soluble polymers into mortar or concrete by
dispersing an unswollen, water-soluble, swellable polymer in an
aqueous solution of a water-soluble salt or organic solvent in
which said substance is only partially soluble or totally insoluble
and, then, mixing this dispersion into the mortar or concrete.
Burge states that the salt or organic solvent serves to prevent
dissolution and swelling of the polymeric substance. Specifically
mentioned are aqueous solutions of NaCl, Na.sub.2 SO.sub.4,
MgSO.sub.4, Al.sub.2 (SO.sub.4).sub.3 and NaH.sub.2 PO.sub.4,
alcohol and glycol. Bentonite is used as a stabilizer.
Girg et al, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,283,229, disclose that a stable
suspension can be prepared by adding a nonionic, water-soluble
cellulose ether derivative to a solution of an electrolyte if
alumina is added to the suspension. Suitable electrolytes are
described to include metal or ammonium salts of mineral acids or
organic acids, especially salts which contain an alkali metal ion,
an alkaline earth metal ion, an earth metal ion, or a zinc, copper,
iron or manganese ion as the cation, and a sulfate, carbonate,
silicate, sulfite, halide, phosphate, nitrate, nitrite, acetate,
formiate, tartate, or citrate ion, including their hydrogen salts,
as the anion.
None of these aqueous systems provides a suitable method of
dispersing high concentrations of water-soluble polymer in an
aqueous system, as gels tend to form at high water-soluble polymer
concentrations and the products will not flow or be readily
pumpable. Accordingly, users of water-soluble polymers desire a
stable, concentrated, aqueous water-soluble polymer suspension that
can be used to incorporate water-soluble polymers in aqueous
solutions readily, without formation of agglomerates or clumps, and
which may be handled without the problems associated with dry
powder water-soluble polymers.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention is an aqueous suspension comprising 15% or more, by
total weight of the suspension, of at least one anionic or nonionic
water-soluble polymer dispersed in an aqueous solution of an
ammonium salt having a multivalent anion, wherein the weight ratio
of the ammonium salt to the water is at least 0.15.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
This invention is a stable, pourable fluid suspension containing
high concentrations of water-soluble polymer.
"Suspension", "dispersion", "solution" and other terms are often
confused. Thus, it should be understood that herein "suspension"
and "dispersion" are used interchangeably to mean a system in which
solid particles (water-soluble polymer) are dispersed in a liquid
(water). It should also be understood that "solution" means a
homogenous mixture of a solvent (e.g., water) with a solute (e.g.,
dissolved ammonium salt, dissolved water-soluble polymer,
etc.).
Useful water-soluble polymers are nonionic or anionic and possess
numerous hydrophilic substituents, such as hydroxyl, carboxyl,
ether or amide substituents, attached directly or indirectly to a
polymeric molecular backbone or chain, such that the number average
molecular weight of the polymer is high, e.g., such that the
solution viscosity is on the order of 5,000 or more centipoise in a
5 weight percent aqueous polymer solution and in larger amounts,
c.g., 5-10 weight percent, their aqueous solution viscosities are
extremely high or they form a gel. For reasons of this very high
viscosity, these polymers cannot normally be pumped or handled
(dissolved) in aqueous media when their concentration exceeds 5-10
weight percent.
Well known are natural gums and their derivatives, such as
cellulose derivatives, guar and its derivatives, xanthan gum,
starch and its derivatives, etc.; partially and fully hydrolyzed
polyvinyl alcohols; polyacrylamide polymers and copolymers,
polyvinylpyrrolidone and derivatives thereof and polyamides, etc.
Illustrative are polyacrylamide, carboxymethylcellulose (sodium and
other salts), hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose,
carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose, hydrophobically modified
hydroxyethylcellulose (this term refers to water-soluble
hydroxyethylcellulose polymers further comprising C.sub.6 -C.sub.24
alkyl groups as described by Landoll in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,288,277
and 4,352,916), partially and fully hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol,
hydroxyethylhydroxypropylcellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, guar,
hydroxypropyl guar, polyethylene oxide, xanthan gum,
polyacrylamide, polyvinylpyrrolidone, methylhydroxypropylcellulose
(also well known as hydroxypropylmethylcellulose),
methylhydroxyethylcellulose,
3-alkoxy-2-hydroxypropylhydroxyethylcellulose (e.g.,
3-alkoxy-2-hydroxypropylhydroxyethylcellulose wherein alkyl is 2-8
are described by t'Sas in U.S. Pat. Application No. 07/063,568,
filed June 17, 1987, and
3-alkoxy-2-hydroxypropylhydroxylethylcellulose wherein alkyl is
6-24 is described by the U.S. Pat. application filed on July 25,
1988, by John David Angerer, entitled "Aqueous Protective Coating
Composition Comprising
3-alkoxy-2-hydroxypropylhydroxyethylcellulose and Film Forming
Latice"), etc. Preferred are sodium carboxymethylcellulose, anionic
polyacrylamide, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose,
carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose, hydrophobically modified
hydroxyethylcellulose and
3-butoxy-2-hydroxypropylhydroxyethylcellulose.
Suspensions according to this invention contain 15% or more of the
particulate water-soluble polymer. Preferably, the concentration of
water-soluble polymer will be in the range of 20 to 50% and most
preferably in the range of 22 to 35%.
Any ammonium salt having having a multivalent anion and which may
be dissolved in water to a sufficiently high concentration that it
will render the water-soluble polymer insoluble with minimal
swelling, can be used in this invention. Preferred are diammonium
phosphate, diammonium sulfate (also known as ammonium sulfate),
ammonium polyphosphate, and mixtures thereof. Diammonium phosphate
is available from Monsanto Company, St. Louis, Mo., J. T. Baker
Chemical Co., Phillipsburgh, N.J., and FMC Corporation,
Philadelphia, Pa. Diammonium sulfate is readily available from
numerous sources such as Agway, Inc., Syracuse, N.Y. Fertilizer
fluids, such as "10-34" ammonium polyphosphate fertilizer fluid,
are available from numerous producers such as Willard Agricultural
Service, Lynch, Md.
The weight ratio of the ammonium salt to the water is at least 0.15
in this invention and is preferably 0.18 to 0.6. The desired
concentration of salt in water varies with the polymer type to be
suspended. For suspending polymers such as hydroxyethylcellulose,
for example, a salt-to-water ratio of 0.18 to 0.25 is preferred,
whereas for suspending carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose a
salt-to-water ratio of 0.3 to 0.4 is preferred, and for suspending
carboxymethylcellulose a salt-to-water ratio of 0.4 to 0.6.
A number of other additives have been found to provide beneficial
properties to this invention. Preferred additives are stabilizers,
such as hydrophilic fumed silica and clays such as attapulgite
clay. They increase the time over which the suspension will remain
stable. Also useful for stabilization, in certain circumstances,
are carboxymethyl cellulose, xanthan gum and other water-soluble
polymers. For instance, the most preferred stabilizer for
hydroxyethyl cellulose suspensions are sodium carboxymethyl
cellulose and xanthan gum. Stabilizers are generally used in
amounts up to about 2%, and are preferably used in an amount of
0.5% to 1%, by weight of the total suspension.
Other additives which can be used include pigments, dispersants,
surfactants, glycols and thickening agents. There are generally
used in amounts up to 10%, preferably 0.5% to 2%, by weight of the
total suspension.
The suspensions of this invention can be prepared by dissolving the
ammonium salt in water to form an aqueous salt solution and, then,
dispersing with agitation the water-soluble polymer therein. In the
case where other additives are employed, these are typically added
to the water before the salt.
By "stable" is meant that the dispersed phase (water-soluble
polymer) and aqueous phase do not separate for some minimum time
after preparation, or if separation does occur the polymer may be
readily redispersed with a minor amount of agitation. Stability is
a function of the polymer and salt used, as well as their
concentration. The suspensions of this invention are stable as
made. They are preferably stable for at least three hours after
preparation, more preferably stable for at least one day after
preparation, and most preferably stable for at least one month
after preparation. The stability of the suspensions of this
invention can be further improved by mixing the solution in a
vacuum, so as to remove entrained air. The prolonged stability of
the suspensions of this invention permits their preparation at one
location and transportation to another location where they are to
be used.
The water-soluble polymer suspensions of this invention are useful
in virtually all applications where dry water-soluble polymers are
presently used, the only limitation being that the ammonium salts
may not be desirable in some applications. The applications in
which the dispersions of this invention may be used include, e.g.,
water clarification, mineral processing, food and pharmaceutical
thickening, cosmetics thickening, agricultural products thickening,
oil field applications, building products (e.g., joint cements),
ceramics, latex paints, paper coatings, emulsion polymerization,
suspension polymerization, etc. Advantages of using the high
concentration water-soluble polymer suspensions of this invention
include the ability to control thickening action of the polymer
(thickening time is reduced substantially), ease of handling and
dosage control, avoidance of polymer dusting, etc.
The suspensions may be added to aqueous systems (e.g., aqueous
solutions, by simply adding, e.g., pouring, the suspension into the
aqueous system. Agitation enhances dissolution. The suspension may
also be sprinkled, sprayed, on etc., where desired for a specific
end use.
This invention is demonstrated in the following examples, which are
illustrative and not intended to be limiting, wherein all parts,
percentages, etc., are by weight. Distilled water was used in each
instance.
EXAMPLE 1
In an open reaction vessel, 22.5 parts of technical grade
diammonium phosphate (obtained from Monsanto Company, St. Louis,
Mo.) was dissolved into 52.5 parts of distilled water with
stirring. With continued stirring, 25 parts of Natrosol.RTM. 250GR
hydroxyethylcellulose (Aqualon Company, Wilmington, Del.) was
dispersed in the solution. After addition was completed, the vessel
was sealed and 29" Hg of vacuum was applied for 15 minutes, with
stirring, to remove entrained air. The resultant suspension was
poured into a glass storage container and stored at room
temperature for three days, after which time no appreciable
settling of the solid hydroxyethylcellulose particles was noted,
and the suspension remained fluid and pourable.
EXAMPLE 2
In an open reaction vessel, 30 parts of fertilizer grade diammonium
sulfate (Agway, Inc., Syracuse, N.Y.) was dissolved into 45 parts
of distilled water with stirring. With continued stirring, 25 parts
of Aqualonr.TM. carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose 420H (Aqualon
Company, Wilmington, Del.) was dispersed in the solution. After
addition was completed, mixing was continued for 15 minutes, and
the resultant suspension was poured into a glass storage container
and stored at room temperature. One day later no appreciable
settling of the solid carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose particles
was noted, and the suspension remained fluid and pourable.
EXAMPLE 3
In an open reaction vessel, 75 parts of "10-34" ammonium
polyphosphate aqueous fertilizer fluid (Agway, Inc., Syracuse,
N.Y.) (1.44 gram/cc specific gravity with a dried salt content of
59 weight %) was added to a reaction vessel with stirring. With
continued stirring, 25 parts of Aqualon.TM. carboxymethylcellulose
7H3SXF, (Aqualon Company, Wilmington, Del.) was dispersed in the
solution. After addition was completed, the vessel was sealed and
29" Hg of vacuum was applied for 15 minutes, with stirring, to
remove entrained air. The resultant suspension was poured into a
glass storage container and stored at room temperature for three
days, after which time no appreciable settling of the solid
carboxymethylcellulose particles was noted, and the suspension
remained fluid and pourable.
EXAMPLE 4
In an open reaction vessel, 51.8 parts of diammonium sulfate
(Agway, Inc., Syracuse, N.Y.) was dissolved into 96.2 parts of
distilled water with stirring. With continued stirring, 1 part of
Sylox 15 hydrophilic fumed silica (Davison Chemical Company,
Baltimore, Md.) was added to the vessel. Then, Aqualon.TM.
carboxymethyl-hydroxyethylcellulose 420H (Aqualon Company,
Wilmington, Del.) was dispersed in the solution. After addition was
completed, mixing was continued for 5 minutes and, then, 2 parts of
Min-U-Gel FG attapulgite clay (Floridin Company, Quincy, Fla.) was
added and stirring was continued for 15 minutes. The resultant
suspension had a Brookfield Viscosity (#2 spindle, 30 rpm) of 208
centipoise. It was poured into a glass storage container and stored
at room temperature for 30 days, after which no appreciable
settling of the solid carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose particles
was noted, and the suspension remained fluid and pourable.
After 11 days of storage, 8 parts of the suspension was added to
192 parts of water with stirring. The carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl
cellulose dispersed without lumps, then rapidly thickened the water
to form a smooth solution.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 5
In order to demonstrate the advantages of this invention, 2 parts
of Aqualon.TM. carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose 420H (Aqualon
Company, Wilmington, Del.) was added to 198 parts of water under
identical mixing conditions to those used in adding the suspension
to water in Example 4. The carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose, in
this case, formed lumps which were extremely difficult to
dissolve.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 6
In order to compare the claimed invention with the invention of
U.S. Pat. No. 4,283,229, an experiment similar to example V 1 of
that patent was conducted using Aqualon.TM.
carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose 420H. A salt solution was
prepared by dissolving 21 parts of K.sub.2 CO.sub.3 in 54 parts of
water with stirring and, then, 25 parts of
carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose was dispersed in the solution
with stirring. The solids separated from the liquid after 1
day.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 7
In order to compare the claimed invention with the invention of
U.S. Pat. No. 4,283,229, an experiment similar to example V 4 of
that patent was conducted using Aqualon.TM.
carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose 420H. A salt solution was
prepared by dissolving 19.2 parts of MgSO.sub.4 in 60.8 parts of
water with stirring and, then, 20 parts
carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose was dispersed in the solution
with stirring. The solids separated from the liquid after 1
day.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 8
In order to compare the claimed invention with the invention of
U.S. Pat. No. 4,069,062, an experiment similar to example 1 of that
patent was conducted using Aqualon.TM.
carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose 420H. A salt solution was
prepared by dissolving 22.3 parts of aluminum sulfate in 66.7 parts
of water with stirring and, then, 10 parts of
carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose together with 1 part of
bentonite clay were added to the solution with stirring. A gel
formed.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 9
In order to compare the claimed invention with the invention of
U.S. Pat. No. 4,069,062, an experiment similar to example 2 of that
patent was conducted using Aqualon.TM.
carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose 420H. A salt solution was
prepared by dissolving 11.9 parts of sodium sulfate in 67.1 parts
water with stirring and, then, 16 parts
carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose together with 1 part of
bentonite clay were added to the solution with stirring. A paste
formed.
EXAMPLE 10
In an open reaction vessel containing 149 parts of "10-34"
concentrated aqueous ammonium polyphosphate fertilizer solution,
measuring 1.44 specific gravity and having a dried salt content of
59% by weight (Agway, Inc., Syracuse, N.Y.) was added 1 part of
Min-U-Gel FG attapulgite clay (Floridin Company, Quincy, Fla.).
Then, Aqualon.TM. carboxymethylcellulose 7HXF (Aqualon Company,
Wilmington, Del.) was added to the solution and stirring was
continued for 15 minutes. The resulting suspension was poured into
a glass storage container and stored at room temperature for one
week, after which no appreciable settling of the solid
carboxymethylcellulose particles was noted, and the suspension
remained fluid and pourable.
After 6 days of storage, 4 parts of the suspension was added to 196
parts of water with stirring. The carboxymethylcellulose dispersed
without lumps, then rapidly thickened the water to form a solution
having a Brookfield Viscosity (#3 spindle, 30 rpm) of greater than
2000 centipoise.
EXAMPLE 11
The procedures of Example 10 were repeated using Aqualon.TM.
carboxymethylcellulose 7H3SXF (Aqualon Company, Wilmington, Del.).
Similar results to those of Example 10 were obtained.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 12
In order to compare the claimed invention with the invention of
U.S. Pat. No. 4,069,062, a process similar to that of example 1,
from column 2, lines 15-19, of that patent was run using
Aqualon.TM. carboxymethylcellulose 7H3SXF. Thus, a salt solution
was prepared by dissolving 22.3 parts of aluminum sulfate in 66.7
parts water with stirring and, then, 10 parts
carboxymethylcellulose together with 1 part of bentonite clay were
added to the solution with stirring. Gross separation of the solids
from the liquid phase occurred within one day.
The separated phases were mixed so as to prepare a homogenized
mixture and, then, 4 parts of the suspension was added to 196 parts
of water with stirring. The mixture did not impart a viscosity
increase to the water, indicating that the carboxymethylcellulose
had been rendered ineffective as a thickening agent.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 13
In order to compare the claimed invention with the invention of
U.S. Pat. No. 4,069,062, a comparison similar to example 2 of that
patent was run using Aqualon.TM. carboxymethylcellulose 7H3SXF. A
salt solution was prepared by dissolving 11.9 parts of sodium
sulfate in 67.1 parts water with stirring and, then, 20 parts
carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose, together with 1 part of
bentonite clay, were added to the solution with stirring. A paste
formed.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 14
In order to compare the claimed invention with the invention of
U.S. Pat. No. 4,283,229, an experiment similar to example V 1 of
that patent was conducted using Aqualon.TM. carboxymethylcellulose
7H3SXF. A salt solution was prepared by dissolving 21 parts of
K.sub.2 CO.sub.3 in 54 parts water with stirring and, then, it was
attempted to add 20 parts carboxymethylcellulose to the solution
while stirring. A solid gel resulted during addition of
carboxymethylcellulose.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 15
In order to compare the claimed invention with the invention of
U.S. Pat. No. 4,283,229, an experiment similar to example V 4 of
that patent was conducted using Aqualon.TM. carboxymethylcellulose
7H3SXF. A salt solution was prepared by dissolving 19.2 parts of
MgSO.sub.4 in 60.8 parts water with stirring. Then, during the
subsequent addition of 10.8 parts carboxymethylcellulose with
stirring a solid gel resulted.
EXAMPLE 16
In an open reaction vessel, 34 parts of technical grade diammonium
phosphate (obtained from Monsanto Company, St. Louis, Mo.) was
dissolved into 103.5 parts of distilled water with stirring. With
continued stirring, 1 part of Sylox 15 hydrophilic fumed silica
(Davison Chemical Company, Baltimore, Md.) and 1 part of Min-U-Gel
FG (attapulgite clay) (Floridin Company, Quincy, Fla.) were added
to the solution. Then, with continued stirring, 60 parts of
Natrosol.RTM. Plus Grade D-330 hydrophobically modified
hydroxyethylcellulose (Aqualon Company, Wilmington, Del.) was
dispersed in the solution. The resultant suspension was poured into
a glass storage container and stored at room temperature for over
60 days, after which time no appreciable separation of the solid
hydrophobically modified hydroxyethylcellulose particles was noted,
and the suspension remained fluid and pourable.
EXAMPLE 17
In an open reaction vessel, 238.2 parts of technical grade
diammonium phosphate (Monsanto Company, St. Louis, Mo.) was
dissolved into 643.8 parts of distilled water with stirring. With
continued stirring, 6 parts Sylox 15 hydrophilic fumed silica
(Davison Chemical Company, Baltimore, Md.) and 12 parts Min-U-Gel
FG attapulgite clay (Floridin Company, Quincy, Fla.) were added to
the solution. Then, 60 parts of Natrosol.TM. 250 GR hydroxyethyl
cellulose (Aqualon Company, Wilmington, Del.) was dispersed in the
solution and stirring was continued for 15 minutes. The resultant
suspension had a Brookfield viscosity (#3 spindle, 30 rpm) of 2500
cps. It was poured into a glass storage container and stored at
room temperature for over 60 days, after which time no appreciable
separation of the solid hydrophobically modified
hydroxyethylcellulose particles was noted, and the suspension
remained fluid and pourable.
EXAMPLE 18
In an open reaction vessel, 40 parts of fertilizer grade diammonium
sulfate (Agway, Inc., Syracuse, N.Y.) was added to 60 parts of
distilled water and dissolved with stirring. With continued
stirring, 1 part Sylox 15 hydrophilic fumed silica (Davison
Chemical Company, Baltimore, Md.) and 1 part Min-U-Gel FG
attapulgite clay (Floridin Company, Quincy, Fla.) were added to the
solution. Then, with continued stirring, 50 parts of Natrosol.TM.
GXR hydroxyethylcellulose (Aqualon Company, Wilmington, Del.) was
dispersed in the solution to produce a 33 weight % suspension of
hydroxyethylcellulose. Afterwards, the vessel was sealed and vacuum
was applied for 10 minutes, with continued stirring, to remove
entrained air. The resultant suspension was poured into a glass
vessel and measured to have a Brookfield viscosity (#3 spindle, 30
rpm) of 1,100 cps.
EXAMPLE 19
In an open reaction vessel, 63.6 parts of fertilizer grade
diammonium sulfate (Agway, Inc., Syracuse, N.Y.) was added to 95.4
parts of distilled water and dissolved with stirring. Then, with
continued stirring, 40 parts of Reten.RTM. 523 high molecular
weight anionic polyacrylamide (Hercules Incorporated, Wilmington,
Del.) was dispersed in the solution. After 15 minutes of stirring,
the resultant suspension was poured into a glass vessel and
measured to have a Brookfield viscosity (#1 spindle, 60 rpm) of 70
cps. The resultant suspension was poured into a glass storage
container and stored at room temperature for seven days, after
which time the suspension was fluid and pourable.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 20
This comparative example was carried out using a salt described in
U.S. Pat. No. 4,069,062.
A saturated sodium chloride solution was prepared by adding 50
parts sodium chloride to 80 parts distilled water, stirring the
solution for 60 minutes, allowing the undissolved sodium chloride
to settle and decanting the supernatant liquid. Then, 25 parts of
Aqualon.TM. carboxymethylcellulose 7H3SXF (Aqualon Company,
Wilmington, Del.) was added to 75 parts of the sodium chloride
solution while stirring. A gelled product formed during the course
of carboxymethylcellulose addition.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 21
This comparative example was carried out using a salt described in
U.S. Pat. No. 4,069,062.
A saturated sodium phosphate monobasic (Mallinkrodt, Inc., St.
Louis, Mo.) solution was prepared by adding 50 parts sodium to 80
parts distilled water, stirring the solution for 60 minutes,
allowing the undissolved sodium phosphate monobasic to settle and
decanting the supernatant liquid. Then, 25 parts of Aqualon.TM.
carboxymethylcellulose 7H3SXF (Aqualon Company, Wilmington, Del.)
was added to 75 parts of the sodium phosphate monobasic solution
while stirring. A gelled product formed during the course of
carboxymethylcellulose addition.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 22
This comparative example was carried out using a salt described in
U.S. Pat. No. 4,069,062.
A saturated magnesium sulfate solution was prepared by adding 50
parts magnesium sulfate to 80 parts distilled water, stirring the
solution for 60 minutes, allowing the undissolved magnesium sulfate
to settle and decanting the supernatant liquid. Then, 25 parts of
Aqualon.TM. carboxymethylcellulose 7H3SXF (Aqualon Company,
Wilmington, Del.) was added to 75 parts of the magnesium sulfate
solution while stirring. A gelled product formed during the course
of carboxymethylcellulose addition.
EXAMPLE 23
In an open reaction vessel, 36.8 parts of diammonium phosphate
(Monsanto Company, St. Louis, Mo.) was added to 110.2 parts of
distilled water and dissolved with stirring. With continued
stirring, 1 part Sylox 15 hydrophilic fumed silica (Davison
Chemical Company, Baltimore, MD) and 2 parts Min-U-Gel FG
attapulgite clay (Floridin Company, Quincy, Fla.) were added to the
solution. Then, with continued stirring, 50 parts of Natrosol.RTM.
250 GR hydroxyethylcellulose (Aqualon Company, Wilmington, Del.)
was dispersed in the solution. A stable fluid, pourable suspension
of hydroxyethylcellulose resulted.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 24
This comparative example was carried out using a salt described in
U.S. Pat. No. 4,069,062.
The procedures of Example 23 were repeated using sodium phosphate,
monobasic (Mallinkrodt, Inc. St. Louis, Mo.). A gelled product was
obtained after 10 minutes of stirring the hydroxyethylcellulose
containing solution.
COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 25
This comparative example was carried out using a salt described in
U.S. Pat. No. 4,283,229.
In an open reaction vessel, 7.4 parts of potassium carbonate and 1
part powdered alumina "A-15" (ALCOA, Pittsburgh, Pa.) were
dissolved in 66.6 parts distilled water. Upon addition of 25 parts
of Natrosol.RTM. 250 GR hydroxyethylcellulose (Aqualon Company,
Wilmington, Del.) a thick paste resulted.
CONTROL EXAMPLE 26
This Control Example shows preparation of a semigloss paint using
dry powder Natrosol.RTM. Plus hydrophobically modified
hydroxyethylcellulose.
A pigment grind was prepared by milling 80 parts propylene glycol,
8.5 parts Tamol Sg-1 (Rohm & Haas Co., Philadelphia, Pa.)
dispersant, 2 parts Hercules.RTM. SGL defoamer (Hercules
Incorporated, Wilmington, Del.), 240 parts titanium dioxide R-900
(E. 1. duPont de Nemours & Co., Inc., Wilmington, Del.) and 25
parts amorphous silica 1160 (Illinois Minerals Company, Cairo,
Ill.) in a high speed Cowles blade for 20 minutes. Then, to the
pigment grind were sequentially added 65 parts water, 500 parts
Rhoplex AC-417 latex (Rohm and Haas Co., Philadelphia, Pa.), 2.7
parts Hercules.RTM. SGL defoamer, 10 parts propylene glycol, 21.6
parts Texanol.TM. (Eastman Kodak Co., Eastern Chemical Products,
Kingsport, Tenn.), 1 part Super Ad-it (Tenneco, Elizabeth, NJ) and
0.5 parts Triton GR-7M (Rohm & Haas Co., Philadelphia, Pa.) to
form a base paint.
Then, a polymer slurry was formed by dispersing 15 parts of
Natrosol.RTM. Plus hydrophobically modified hydroxyethylcellulose
Grade 330 into 85 parts of pH 6.5 water. Then, before the onset of
thickening (less than 3 minutes after addition of the polymer to
water), 6.4 parts of this slurry was added along with 25.5 parts of
water to 400 parts of the base paint to form a thickened paint.
EXAMPLE 27
This Example shows preparation of a semigloss paint using the
Natrosol.RTM. Plus hydrophobically modified hydroxyethylcellulose
suspension of Example 16.
A semigloss paint was formed by adding 3.2 parts of the
Natrosol.RTM. Plus hydrophobically modified hydroxyethyl cellulose
solution prepared in Example 16 along with 28.7 parts of water to
400 parts of the base paint prepared as described in Example
24.
The paints prepared in Examples 26 and 27 had the characteristics
listed in Table 1, below.
TABLE 1 ______________________________________ Semigloss Latex
Paint Thickener Control Example 26 Example 27 Thickener (dry powder
control) (dispersion) ______________________________________
Polymer dosage: 0.22% 0.22% (active HEC added to paint) Paint
Viscosity, KU: 95 89 (overnight) ICI Viscosity, cps: 2.0 2.2
Leveling: 3 4 Sag Resistance: 24 19 Scrub Resistance: 1600 cycles+
1600 cycles+ Gloss 60.degree./80.degree. 26.7/54.8 27.9/56.5
______________________________________
The data in Table 1 indicate that the paints prepared in Control
Example 26 and Example 27 had equivalent rheological and film
properties. Thus, it can be seen that the fluid suspension of this
invention can be employed to thicken latex paints without adverse
effects resulting from the salt.
CONTROL EXAMPLE 28
This Control Example shows use of dry carboxymethyl cellulose in
the pelletization of iron ore.
Taconite ore concentrate from a U.S. operation comprising greater
than 60% iron and less than 5% silica, consisting of fine particles
passing 100% through 200 U.S. mesh were pelletized as follows.
In a Hobart oscillating mixer, 3268 parts of ore having a moisture
content of 8.2% was mixed with water to reach a moisture content of
9.5%.
A measured quantity of dry Aqualon.TM. carboxymethylcellulose 7HX
(Aqualon Company, Wilmington, Del.) was sprinkled on the ore and
mixing was carried out over 3 minutes, after which the mixture was
passed through a high speed shredder to form a uniform blend
suitable for balling.
Balls were made in a 15 inch diameter (size 6.00-6) airplane tire,
rotated at a rate of 65 revolutions per minute with the axis of
rotation being horizontal, as follows:
l. Small amounts of concentrated ore were fed by hand into the
rotating tire alternately with distilled water mist. As seed balls
formed they were removed and hand screened to -4.75, +4 mm. 800 g
of concentrate was set aside for seed preparation. This process was
continued until at least 100 g of seed balls were generated.
2. 92 g of prepared seeds were put in the rotating tire and
moistened slightly with a fine mist spray of distilled water. Part
of the remaining 2440 g of concentrate was added to the seeds as
quickly as possible over a 1 minute period. The balls were removed
and the newly formed seeds (-4.75 mm) were screened out and
discarded.
3. The +4.75 mm balls were returned to the rotating tire and the
remainder of the concentrate was added over a 1-11/2 minute time
period. The finished balls were then rolled for 5 seconds.
4. The wet balls were screened to determine size distribution. A
-12.7, +11.2 mm cut was used for moisture content determination and
physical tests.
Two standard tests were used to measure performance, the drop test
and the compression test. The drop test and compressive strength
test demonstrate the ability of wet and dry balls to withstand
cracking under normal handling conditions. Balls must have
sufficient prefired strength so that they do not crack during
handling or transfer in the pellet plant, but must not be so
plastic that they disform and impair bed permeability in the
indurating furnace.
The drop test was carried out by dropping the wet balls repeatedly
from a height of 18 inches onto a smooth steel plate. The number of
drops required to crack each ball was recorded and the average
value for 10 balls reported.
Compressive strength was measured by applying pressure to both wet
and dry pellets until the pellets crumbled. The apparatus consisted
of a Chatillon spring testing device with appropriate range dial
push-pull gauge (5 lb capacity for wet, 25 lb for dry). Dried balls
were obtained by placing green balls in a 105.degree. C. oven for
18 hours. Finished ball moisture was determined simultaneously.
Compressive strength results presented are also the average of 10
balls tested.
Generally mine operators require that green balls be able to
withstand at least 6 drops. Similarly, dry compressive strength of
10 or more pounds is desired. In practice, however, it has been
difficult to attain dry strengths of greater than 5 lbs with
non-bentonite binders at economically acceptable use levels.
EXAMPLE 29
This Example shows use of the carboxymethylcellulose suspension of
Example 10 in the pelletization of iron ore.
The procedures of Control Example 29 were repeated using the
carboxymethylcellulose suspension of Example 10 in place of the dry
carboxymethyl cellulose.
Results of Control Example 28 and Example 29 are shown in the
following Table.
TABLE 2 ______________________________________ Iron Ore Binder
Binder Dosage Taconite Dry Avg. Example Lbs/Ton Ore Compressive
Strength ______________________________________ 28 1.0 6.0 lbs 29
4.0 9.3 lbs (1.0 lb/ton CMC)
______________________________________
The pellets produced using the fluid carboxymethylcellulose
suspension had a higher compressive strength, on an equal
carboxymethylcellulose weight basis, when compared to the pellets
produced using dry carboxymethylcellulose. The results indicate
that the salts present in the carboxymethylcellulose suspension
were beneficial to performance of the water soluble polymer in this
application.
CONTROL EXAMPLE 30
This Control Example shows use of dry powder hydroxyethylcellulose
as a thickener for a paper coating.
Sequentially, 600 parts water, 14 parts Dispex N-40 (Allied
Colloid, Suffolk, Va.), and 1400 parts Hydrasperse kaolin clay (J.
M. Huber, Macon, GA) were added to a mixing vessel and were mixed
at high speed for 30 minutes to form a base clay slip. Next, 429
parts of the base clay slip was mixed with 72 parts of Dow 620
styrene-butadiene latex (Dow Chemical Company, Midland, Mich.) and
6 parts of Floco 501 lubricant (Henkel Process Chemical, Inc.,
Morristown, N.J.) were added. Then, 38 parts of 4% Natrosol.RTM.
250 GR hydroxyethylcellulose solution, prepared by slowly adding
the hydroxyethylcellulose to water, along with an additional 40
parts water were added to the base clay slip.
EXAMPLE 31
This Example shows use of the hydroxyethylcellulose suspension of
Example 17 as a thickener for a paper coating.
Sequentially, 600 parts water, 14 parts Dispex N-40 (Allied
Colloid, Suffolk, Va.), and 1400 parts Hydrasperse kaolin clay (J.
M. Huber, Macon, Ga.) were added to a mixing vessel and were mixed
at high speed for 30 minutes to form a base clay slip. Next, 429
parts of the base clay slip was mixed with 72 parts of Dow 620
styrene-butadiene latex (Dow Chemical Company, Midland, Mich.) and
6 parts of Floco 501 lubricant (Henkel Process Chemical, Inc.,
Morristown, N.J.) were added. Then, 6 parts of the the
Natrosol.RTM. 250 GR hydroxyethylcellulose suspension of Example
17, along with an additional 56 parts water, were added to the base
clay slip.
The paper coatings were tested for Brookfield viscosity, water
retention and high shear viscosity. The results are shown in Table
3 below.
TABLE 3 ______________________________________ Paper Coating
Thickener Paper Coating Properties Brookfield Water Hercules
Example Dosage Viscosity Retention Viscosity*
______________________________________ 30 0.5 parts 1200 cps 7.0
sec 35.4 cps 31 0.5 parts 1160 cps 7.0 sec 42.3 cps (active)
______________________________________ *Shear rate of 4.59 .times.
(10).sub.4 sec.sup.-1.
The data in Table 3 indicates that the paper coating prepared with
the hydroxyethylcellulose suspension performed equivalently to that
prepared with the dry powder hydroxyethyl cellulose.
EXAMPLE 32
This example demonstrates use of carboxymethylcellulose as a
stabilizer for a hydroxyethylcellulose suspension per this
invention.
Into a beaker containing 120 parts of distilled water, 1.00 parts
of Aqualon.TM. carboxymethylcellulose 7LlT was added and the
mixture was stirred for about 30 minutes until the
carboxymethylcellulose dissolved. Then, 28.2 parts of diammonium
phosphate (Monsanto Company, St. Louis, Mo.) was added to the
mixture and stirred to dissolve. The carboxymethylcellulose
remained stable in this media as evidenced by the fact that no
precipitate or haziness were observed. In a final step, 50.8 parts
of Natrosol.RTM. 250 GR hydroxyethylcellulose was added to the
mixture and the mixture was stirred for 15 minutes to disperse the
hydroxyethylcellulose. The product was a fluid, pourable suspension
that showed minimal solids/liquid separation after storage in a
closed container at 50.degree. C for 24 hours.
While the invention has been described with respect to specific
embodiments, it should be understood that they are not intended to
be limiting and that many variations and modifications are possible
without departing from the scope of this invention.
* * * * *